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Debra McNeese
GAP Program Director, College of Business and Management
Why I CARE
My son is a recent graduate of UIS. My experiences working with students and the system made his journey a bit easier and made him more successful in his program. Helping him helped me to see the student-end of the processes, so I was able to learn how to help other students as well.
How do you show CARE in your day-to-day work at UIS?
In my day-to-day work at UIS, I demonstrate CARE through Communication. I have had many students tell me how hard the system is to work with—whether it’s applying, registering for classes, applying to graduate, or managing their tuition and fees—and can feel overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Recognizing that they are already balancing the stress of coursework, I make it a priority to reduce that burden wherever I can.
For example, I once worked with a student who came to me frustrated and unsure of how to register for their first semester courses. Instead of directing them back to their Welcome Letter and Steps to Register Instructions, I set up a Zoom meeting with them and walked through the process step-by-step, explaining each step in simpler terms and pointing out exactly what they needed to do. I also shared a short, personalized checklist they could reference later.
By the end of the conversation, the student felt much more confident and relieved, and they were able to successfully register without further issues. Moments like this reinforce how important it is to go beyond simply providing information and instead ensure that students truly understand what they need to do.
Because of this approach, students often seek me out for help—even if I am not their assigned advisor. I see that as a reflection of trust and the impact that clear, supportive communication can have. To me, communication is not just about sharing information; it’s about making sure students feel confident, capable, and supported as they navigate their experience at UIS.
Ultimately, I view it as my responsibility to help students succeed, and strong, student-centered communication is one of the most effective ways I can contribute to that goal.
What is CARE?
CARE, our foundation for working with others, guides UIS employees to foster a student-centered experience where every individual feels valued, supported and connected. This framework reinforces our Prairie Star commitment to academic and community excellence through integrity, respect and empathy, embedded into daily interactions.